Redstones Welcomes Its Latest Franchisee In Thanet

Redstones’ network of franchise owners continues to go from strength to strength. Our most recent addition is Alan Munns, currently in franchise training prior to opening his office in Thanet, Kent. Continuing our series of blogs exploring the background and motivation of our franchisees, we spoke to Alan recently to find out more about what prompted him to choose Redstones as his franchisor.

Alan, what was your background prior to becoming a Redstones franchisee?

I spent 28 years in Information Technology, the last 20 of which were spent in senior management positions. I’ve also worked for larger American banks and FTSE 100 organisations and ran my own successful manufacturing business for over 15 years.For the last three years I’ve been running my own IT consultancy business. As well as that, over the last 12 years, I’ve been building up my portfolio of residential properties which I rent out.

What prompted you to launch your own franchise business?

Realising the potential in the lettings agency sector, my aim was to expand that side of my business and also venture into residential sales. Like many people, I’ve experienced mixed levels of service within the lettings industry and I felt there was plenty of scope for improvement.

How did you find out about the franchise sector?

I have been attending various landlord and property exhibitions for several years. During this time I’ve always been looking into the franchise options but over the past 18 months I’ve carried out more in-depth research into lettings agency franchises, mainly talking to the bigger industry names. The problems I encountered were twofold. First of all their start-up costs made their franchises prohibitive. In such a competitive market place I felt the chances of success with the burden of the initial costs was low. Secondly, the size of the territories on offer were not very big.

Why did you chose franchising over an employed career?

I don’t enjoy working for large corporate organisations as I’ve proved I can do better on my own. I’m a creative hard working person looking for an opportunity to succeed without the burden of corporate bureaucracy. It was also important for me to work with like-minded people.

What did you particularly like about Redstones?

After meeting Manjit at Redstones and discussing their franchise opportunity in more detail I was confident that Redstones met my own requirements and expectations. Not only was Manjit open and honest throughout the due diligence process, he allowed me unrestricted access to the other Redstones franchisees to answer my questions and provide all the information I needed in order to make a decision. Redstones are also ambitious and enthusiastic about the brand.

What prompted your final decision?

I concluded that Redstones offered the best value, with a good brand, a substantial territory, minimal interference in the day-to-day running of the business. At the same time, there is a high level of support from their head office staff when needed. In my experience, organisations such as Redstones have the agility and creativity to win more clients, provide greater customer service and are able to respond quickly to industry trends and changes. They are more entrepreneurial and forward thinking which is essential in this market.

What are your aspirations for your franchise?

My goal is to have a permanent premises within 18 months and two further premises within my territory within three years.

What would your advice be to someone thinking of buying a franchise?

Take your time, do your due diligence. Be 100% sure and confident in your choice.

Thank you for your time, we’ll be with you all the way as you build your new business.

If you feel you possess the necessary attributes to become a Redstones franchisee, we would love to hear from you. Contact Redstones today for more information on running your own Redstones lettings agency.

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About The Author – Manjit Virdi B.Sc Hons MARLA MNAEA

Owner of Redstones Agency offering a superlative service to residential property owners in both the lettings and sales market.
Redstones is a successful lettings agency established in 2003 with an aim of providing a superlative service to property owners frustrated by the lack of customer service in the market.
Following the opening of our first high street office in 2010, we launched a customer focused service covering residential sales, lettings, property management and auctions. Building on our successful foundations in the residential market, Redstones has recently extended its service into the commercial sales and lettings sector.
With a proven, successful business format, we are now expanding our brand through franchising, attaining provisional membership of the BFA in 2011
Our vision is to be the largest, reputable lettings agency in the UK.
Skills : Residential Lettings, Residential Sales, Estate Agency, Franchisor, Lettings Franchise, Property Franchise, Commercial & Auctions